Early Childhood Program Handbook 2021-2022 - For Parents - Dublin City ...
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Early Childhood Program
Handbook
2021-2022
For ParentsSelected Table of Contents Mission Statement .................................................................................................... Page 1 Our Philosophy and Beliefs ....................................................................................... Page 1 Board of Education / Administrative Team ............................................................... Page 2 Early Childhood Contacts Guide ............................................................................... Page 3 District Calendar ........................................................................................................ Page 4 Early Child Team / Locations / Hours ....................................................................... Page 5 Early Childhood Peer Program ................................................................................. Page 5 Important Information ............................................................................................... Page 7 Emergency Procedures ............................................................................................. Page 8 Clinic / Medical Information ..................................................................................... Page 12 Immunizations .......................................................................................................... Page 15 Student Records/FERPA .......................................................................................... Page 16 Ohio’s Early Learning Program Guidelines ............................................................. Page 19 Ohio’s Early Learning and Development Standards ................................................ Page 20 Student Education Technology Acceptable Use and Safety Policy ......................... Page 20 Equal Education Opportunity .................................................................................... Page 22 Student Support Services .......................................................................................... Page 23 Child Find ................................................................................................................. Page 23 Response to Intervention ........................................................................................... Page 23 Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act and Section 504/ADA ... Page 23 Bullying and Other Forms of Aggressive Behavior ................................................. Page 24 Early Childhood Program Contract Copy for Peer Students .................................... Page 35 Handbook Acknowledgement Form ......................................................................... Page 36
Welcome
We welcome you to the Dublin City Schools. We will provide your child with a high quality education and look forward to
working with you. This handbook is written to help you understand the procedures and programs at your school.
Dublin City Schools Mission Statement
We believe that all students can and must learn at high levels of achievement. It is our job to create an environment in our
classrooms that results in this high level of performance. We are confident that, with our support and help, students can
master challenging academic material and we expect them to do so. We are prepared to work collaboratively with colleagues,
students, and parents to achieve this shared educational purpose.
Early Childhood Philosophy
Early childhood education lays the groundwork for the development of a lifelong learner. As educators, it is our goal to
support the whole child by providing learning opportunities in all areas of development including social emotional skills and
academic foundations. Children develop excitement for learning through a play-based, multi-sensory approach and
meaningful interactions with others. We strive to provide a fun, safe, and exciting culture that encourages students to take
risks, problem-solve, and move toward independence. Our program provides learning experiences that incorporate student
interests and address individual needs. Additionally, we believe that our relationships with students and families are central
to the advancement of each child’s development. Our intent is to build a strong beginning for future learning and empower
children to reach their highest potential.
Statement of Beliefs
We believe that children:
• Learn best in a safe and nurturing environment
• Learn best when they are valued as unique, capable and independent individuals whose abilities are celebrated
• Learn best through a team approach focused on the whole child, which includes parents and staff actively working
together
• Learn best in a language and literacy rich environment
• Learn best when activities are developmentally appropriate and individualized
• Learn best through the process of an activity rather than focusing on the product
• Learn best through play by investigation and exploration
• Learn best from each other and benefit from being with peers of varying abilities as they learn to function within a
group
• Learn best when they are empowered to work cooperatively, problem-solve, and take responsibility for their
choices
1Board of Education
Mr. Chris Valentine (President) 614-370-6147 valentine_chris@dublinschools.net
Ms. Lynn May (Vice President) 614-209-0078 may_lynn@dublinschools.net
Mr. Stu Harris 614-659-0905 harris_stu@dublinschools.net
Mr. Scott Melody 614-763-1959 melody_scott@dublinschools.net
Mr. Rick Weininger 614-467-9767 weininger_rick@dublinschools.net
Your Board of Education is comprised of five members, elected to a term of four (4) years by the residents of the school
district. Dates, times, and locations of the regular meetings of the Board of Education are set at the organizational meeting
in January. See the District’s web site, www.dublinschools.net for dates, times, and locations of board meetings. All
community members are invited to attend.
Administrative Team – Executive Cabinet and Directors
Dr. John Marschhausen Superintendent Administration Building
Mr. Brian Kern Treasurer 5175 Emerald Parkway
Mrs. Jennifer Schwanke Deputy Superintendent Dublin, OH 43017
Mr. Jeff Stark Chief Operating Officer Ph: (614) 764-5913
Mr. Doug Baker Public Information Officer Fax: (614) 761-5899
Mr. Chris Ondrus Executive Director of Student Services
Dr. Tonya Bailey Executive Director of Teaching and Learning
Mr. Bryan Buoni Executive Director of Human Resources
Mr. Tom McDonnell Director of Student Operations
Mr. Tyler Wolfe Director of Social Emotional Learning
Dr. Bennyce Hamilton Director of Diversity and Equity
Mrs. Lori Marple Director of Curriculum and Instruction
Mr. Mike Ulring Director of Principal Leadership
2A Parent’s Guide to Contacts
Classroom Teacher/
Early Childhood Intervention Specialist
Early Childhood Program Coordinator
Vanessa Ohlinger
614-760-4333
Executive Director of Student Services
Chris Ondrus
614-760-4352
3Appr. 6/8/2020
Dublin City Schools | 2021-2022 CALENDAR
AUGUST 2021 16-17 Work/PD days for staff FEBRUARY 2022 18 No School, Work Day/
S M T W Th F S 18 First day for students S M T W Th F S Professional Development
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 18-19 Kindergarten phase-in days 1 2 3 4 5 Day
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 25 First day for preschool 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 21 No School, Presidents' Day
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 25 End of second trimester
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
29 30 31 27 28
SEPTEMBER 2021 6 No School, Labor Day MARCH 2022 18 End of third nine weeks
S M T W Th F S 15 Family Night S M T W Th F S 28-31 No School, Spring Break
1 2 3 4 1 1 2 3 4 5
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
26 27 28 29 30 27 28 29 30 31
OCTOBER 2021 15 No School, Work Day/ APRIL 2022 1 No School, Spring Break
S M T W Th F S Professional Development Day S M T W Th F S 15 No School, Teacher Conference
1 2 22 End of 1st nine weeks 1 2 Comp Day
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 20 Family Night
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31
NOVEMBER 2021 2 No School/Work Day MAY 2022 20 Last day for preschool
S M T W Th F S Staff Safety Waiver Day S M T W Th F S 24 Last day for Seniors
1 2 3 4 5 6 12 End of first trimester 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 26 Last day for Kindergarten
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 24 No School, Teacher Conference 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 27 Last day for students
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Comp Day 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 (grades 1-11, A.M. only)
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 25-26 No School, 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Last day for staff (full day)
28 29 30 Thanksgiving Break 29 30 31 End of 2nd Semester
29 Graduation
DECEMBER 2021 20-31 No School, Winter Break JUNE 2022
S M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 5
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
26 27 28 29 30 31 27 28 29 30
JANUARY 2022 3 No School, Work Day/ If the district misses more than six (6) days of school,
contingency days will be used beginning on May 31.
S M T W Th F S Professional Development
BE SURE TO CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR CALENDAR UPDATES
2 Day
3 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 End of 2nd nine weeks and
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 1st semester
16 17 18 19 20 21 22 17 No School, MLK Day
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
4Early Childhood Assessment Team
Vanessa Ohlinger, Coordinator
Trisha Soungpradith, Psychologist
Jamie Herre, Psychologist
Kara Wasylczuk, SLP
Michele Bergman, Early Childhood Intervention Specialist, Itinerant Services
Regina Stevenson, Early Childhood Intervention Specialist, Itinerant Services
Early Childhood Learning Center
7030 Coffman Rd.
Dublin, OH 43017
614-761-5880
Early Childhood Intervention Specialists
Chris Ball
Mary Anne Brown
Olivia Buck
Lisa Gates
Marla Hester
Jennie Merna
Leanne Neumeier
Wendy Partin
Emily Renken
Andrea Rosendaul
Anna Segner
Chris Thiel
MaryBeth Wolff-Grace
Rose Yoder
Early Childhood Peer Program
The Dublin City School District offers an outstanding early childhood program that serves children with disabilities and
also provides an educational opportunity for typically developing children to serve as social and academic role models
(peers). To participate as a peer in our early childhood program, an application must be submitted. Peer applications are
available on the Dublin City Schools web site at www.dublinschools.net/preschool.aspx.
Criteria
• Must reside within Dublin City School District
• Child should be approximately 3.5 years of age by the first day of school
• Child enjoys playing with other children: interacts well with others, manipulates toys, and engages in age-
appropriate activities without assistance
• Child demonstrates good language skills: follows simple directions, speaks clearly, makes basic needs
known, answers simple questions
• Pass the Peer screening tool
• Child would be good role model to others: separates easily from parent, models good behavior and social
skills, attends to adult guided activity, and is willing to take turns
• Child must be toilet trained
Tuition (for peer students only)
The peer program is funded by tuition of $140 per month for 4-days/week class and $170 for 5-days/week class. A
non-refundable deposit of $50 will be assessed, which is applied to the last month of tuition. Tuition is due the 1st of
each month. For your convenience, you will receive a monthly invoice. The monthly tuition is an average of the
number of days in the school year divided by nine months. Short months, five-week months, holidays, and five snow
days have been averaged. This means you will pay the same amount each month. Deductions will not be made for a
5child’s absence due to illness. There also will be no deductions for family vacations. Peer families are asked to sign
a contract (see copy in the back of the handbook) and pay the first and last month’s tuition prior to the start of school.
All tuition accounts must be current on the first day of each month. After the first day of each month, students will
not be admitted to the early childhood program until the balance is paid. If you desire to withdraw your child, please
notify us in writing so we will not hold a place for your child and continue to charge your account. Financial assistance
is available for families qualifying for the National School Lunch Program.
Payments are to be sent to:
Attn: Tara Harris
Dublin City Schools
7030 Coffman Rd
Dublin, OH 43017
There is an online payment option through EZ Pay system https://www.spsezpay.com/Dublin/ezpay/Login.aspx.
Checks should be made payable to Dublin City Schools.
For assistance or information contact: Tara Harris at (614) 760-4345.
6Important Information
Enrollment
Students who live within the boundaries of our school district and are between the ages of 3 and 5 are determined
eligible for special education services through a multi-factored evaluation process. Enrollment for those eligible
students is the same as all students in the Dublin City School District. Our program does not discriminate in any way
on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, or socio-economic status. We welcome all young children with disabilities.
In addition, we offer education opportunities for non-disabled children to join the Early Childhood Program as peer
models. Peer families pay monthly tuition and parents provide transportation. Openings are limited. Applications are
accepted beginning in December for the next school year.
Dress Code
Clothing should be comfortable, clean, and appropriate for the weather. It is helpful if the children wear clothes they
can manage themselves. Our classrooms are relaxed, creative, and active. Play clothes that are washable are most
appropriate. Our buildings are air-conditioned and we go outdoors almost every day; so jackets, sweatshirts or
sweaters are a must. Please make sure jackets, book bags, and any items that could get lost have your child’s name
on them.
Many students like to bring toys or special belongings with them to school, which is fine, with some reservations. We
prefer that the items be small enough to fit in their book bags. If it is something that could be misplaced, label it with
the child’s name or initials. We encourage the students to tell us about why they have brought the item and they are
allowed to use it or play with it during free time. When we pick up the room, the students understand that it is time to
put their “special things” back in their book bags. The school cannot be responsible for loss of or damage to items
brought from home.
Personal Property at School
Frequently, unmarked articles of clothing are turned into the office and are not claimed by the owner. Parents are
requested to mark their children’s coats, rainwear, sweaters, hats, gloves, boots, lunch boxes, and backpacks so that
they may be easily identified. Each school has a Lost and Found that students and parents should check for any lost
items. Unclaimed items are given to charity on a quarterly basis.
Care of Property
The Board of Education believes that the schools should help students learn to respect property and develop feelings
of pride in community institutions. The Board charges each student with responsibility for the proper care of school
property and the school supplies and equipment entrusted to his/her use.
Students who cause damage to school property shall be subject to disciplinary measures, and their parents shall be
financially liable for such damage to the extent of the law.
The Board authorizes the imposition of fines for the loss, damage or destruction of school equipment, apparatus,
musical instruments, library material, textbooks, and for damage to school buildings. The District may report to the
appropriate juvenile authorities any student whose damage of school property has been serious or chronic in nature.
A reward may be offered by the Board for the apprehension of any person who vandalizes school property.
The Board will assume no responsibility for any personal property that students bring on to District premises.
Attendance
Daily attendance is encouraged and expected. Students benefit most from our program when they can be part of the
classroom every day. Of course, there are good reasons for excused absences from school, which include: personal
illness, illness in the family necessitating the presence of the child, quarantine of the home, death of a relative,
observation of religious holidays/absence for religious reasons, or professional appointments.
When a student is absent from school, the parents need to call the school at 614-760-4355. If your child is absent and
we have not heard from you, the school secretary will make every attempt to contact the parents at home or at work.
7Once your child returns to school you will need to provide a follow-up note that states reason for absence. If your
student is tardy or needs to leave school early he/she must be signed in or out at the office.
In the event of a planned absence, parents need to send a note to school at least three days before the absence indicating
the dates your child will be gone and the reason for the absence. Check with your child’s teacher to find out what will
be covered during the child’s absence.
Extended Vacations/Extended Student Absence During the School Year
Students are permitted to go on vacation during the school year without penalty (except the week ending each
semester). The purpose of this administrative guideline is to accommodate parents who must take their vacations
during the school year because of company (industry) policies and the desire to enjoy that time as a family.
A. Whenever a proposed absence-for-vacation is requested, parents must discuss it with the principal or his/her
designee. The length of absence should be made clear, and those involved should have an opportunity to express their
views on the potential effects of the absence.
B. The student may be given approximate assignments and materials and pages to be completed.
C. The time missed will be counted as an unexcused absence, but shall not be a factor in determining grades
unless make-up work is not completed.
Emergency Weather Delays
There will be NO AM preschool on days when school is delayed due to inclement weather. PM preschool students
will attend at the regular time. Parents need to have a plan in place for their children.
Parent Notification System
The district’s parent notification system will be used in emergency situations and will not replace TV, radio, the
district’s web site, or the subscription email system. The system is voice activated and the recording will start when
a phone is answered OR when the call is dropped into voice mail. If neither of these takes place, the system will
continue to try to reach a voice for a short period of time and you may receive multiple calls in these cases. If you
have caller ID, the incoming number you will see is 764-5913. If you miss the call, please do not dial this number.
Listen to your voice mail message, check our web site, watch your TV, listen to your radio, or wait for the automated
call to come through again. You will receive the information quicker through one of these electronic methods than
waiting for someone to answer your phone call.
Parents will have the opportunity to control their contact information through the district website
(www.dublinschools.net) under “PARENT RESOURCES,” in “Update Student Information.”
Emergency Closing of School
If the school is closed because of poor weather conditions or an emergency, the closing will be announced over local
radio and television stations and posted on the district’s web site, www.dublinschools.net. If possible, the
announcement will be made on the 11:00 PM news the night before and 6:30 AM on the day of school. Do not call
school employees, the pre-school, or the central office to inquire about school closings. Listen to the radio stations
and watch the local television stations. If you have signed up for the Parent Notification System (as outlined above),
you will be notified of any school closing.
Emergency Early Dismissal
At the beginning of each year, parents will be asked what plan is in place for their child in the unlikely event children
are dismissed early because of an emergency. A form to let the school personnel know the specifics of this plan will
be sent home to you during the first quarter of school. Emergency early dismissals will be communicated through the
Parent Notification system as outlined above.
Emergency Procedures – Fire/Tornado/School Safety Drills
Each Dublin City School has thorough plans in place in the event of an emergency. These plans are filed with local
and state emergency and government offices annually, and school officials conduct periodic safety drills to ensure
students and staff are knowledgeable of emergency practices.
Fire: The Early Childhood Learning Center complies with all fire safety laws and will conduct fire drills in accordance
with state law. Specific instructions on how to proceed during a fire drill will be provided and practiced by students
with their teachers, who will be responsible for the safe prompt and orderly evacuation of the building.
8Tornado: Tornado drills will be conducted during the tornado season using the procedures prescribed by the state of
Ohio.
Safety: School safety drills will take place at intervals throughout the year. Staff provides students with strategies to
utilize in the event there is an unsafe situation or individual in the school setting. As is any other emergency, students,
staff, and guests will be expected follow the directions of the school officials.
Video Surveillance & Electronic Monitoring
In order to protect Board property, promote security and protect the health, welfare and safety of students, staff and
visitors, the Board of Education authorizes the use of video surveillance and electronic monitoring equipment on
school property, in school buildings and school buses. Information obtained through video surveillance/electronic
monitoring may be used to identify intruders and persons breaking the law, Board policy, or the Student Code of
Conduct.
For additional information please reference Board of Education Policy #7440.01 and Administrative Guideline
#7440.01 – Video Surveillance and Electronic Monitoring.
Screenings
Each year, all early childhood students are screened for vision and hearing. In addition, all students new to the district
will be screened for vision and hearing. If a problem is detected, a written referral will be mailed home. At any time
throughout the year, if a parent is concerned their child is having difficulty hearing or seeing, they should contact the
clinic for a screening. Clinic staff will notify the parents of the screening results.
Safety
Student safety is a responsibility of the staff. All staff members are familiar with emergency procedures such as fire
and tornado drills and accident reporting procedures. At least one staff member is trained in communicable disease
and first aid, as is the clinic aide in each building.
Visitors
In order to properly monitor the safety of students and staff, visitors are required to register their attendance upon
arrival at our schools. Visitors are asked to enter through the front doors of the school where they will be invited to
register their attendance with the school secretary in the main office. Any visitor found in the building without a
visitor/volunteer badge will be asked to return to the school office.
If parents wish to confer with a member of the staff, they should call for an appointment prior to coming to the school,
in order to prevent any inconvenience to parents/staff or disruption of the learning process.
Students may not bring visitors to school without first obtaining permission from the building principal.
Parent Involvement
Our program recognizes our parents and families as a valuable member of our early childhood preschool team. We
welcome parent volunteers and need help in a variety of ways. Please let your teacher know you are interested in
helping and she will let you know of opportunities both at school and out of school that are available. In addition to
volunteering their time, we rely on our parents to provide us with helpful information regarding their child outside of
the school setting. The sharing of information is vital through notebooks, newsletters, e-mails and phone calls. Our
staff is committed to creating a team approach for the growth and development of the whole child. Early Childhood
Preschool also has an active parent group that has arranged yearlong social and educational activities for all families.
Schedules of events will be sent home. Parents can be a great resource, and support, for each other.
Student Code of Conduct
Our rules in the classroom and on the bus reflect safety, common sense, respect for each other and respect for our
school. Across all environments, our staff uses developmentally appropriate management techniques including
positive reinforcement, reminders, talking through the situation with the child, redirection, and/or separation from
problem situations. Situations that do not respond to these strategies would warrant a parent conference and a more
formal behavior plan developed by parents and staff.
9We are required by ODE to include the additional information below:
The purpose of this code is to ensure the safety and physical and emotional well-being of all individuals on the
premises. Our methods of discipline shall apply to all persons on the premises and shall be restricted as follows:
There shall be no cruel, harsh, corporal punishment or any unusual punishments such as, but not limited to, punching,
shaking, spanking, or biting.
No discipline shall be delegated to any other child.
No physical restraints shall be used to confine a child by any means other than holding a child for a short period of
time, such as in a protective hug, so the child may regain control.
No child shall be placed in a locked room or confined in an enclosed area such as a closet, a box, or a similar cubicle.
No child shall be subjected to profane language, threats, derogatory remarks about himself or his family, or other
verbal abuse.
Discipline shall not be imposed on a child for failure to eat, failure to sleep, or for toileting accidents.
Techniques of discipline shall not humiliate, shame, or frighten a child.
Discipline shall not include withholding food, rest, or toilet use.
Separation, when used as discipline, shall be brief in duration and appropriate to the child’s age and developmental
ability, and the child shall be within sight and hearing of a preschool staff member in a safe, lighted, and well-ventilated
space.
The center shall not abuse or neglect children and shall protect children from abuse and neglect while in attendance in
the early childhood program.
Dublin City Schools also follows the recommended procedures from the Crisis Prevention Institute when students
present as a danger to themselves or others. Prevention is the primary focus of our approach. However, because some
students can become violent, individualized behavior plans may include the use of physical restraint by a trained staff
member in an emergency situation. If this occurs, a critical incident report will be completed.
Complaint Procedures
It is the desire of the Dublin City School’s Board of Education to rectify any misunderstandings between the public
and the early childhood program by direct discussions of an informal type between the interested parties. If such
meetings fail to resolve the difference, more formal procedures may be employed. The district does maintain policies
regarding public concerns/complaints for those problems not resolvable at the school building level and requiring
Central Office or Board of Education involvement. Copies of Policy and Administrative Guideline 9130 may be
obtained from your building, our web site, or from the Superintendent’s office. Please follow the communication
contacts flow chart on page 3 for further information on complaint procedures, or if you have a problem to solve.
All complaints and reports concerning the operation of the Dublin City School’s Early Childhood Intervention
Program may be reported to the Department Ombudsman at the Office of Early Childhood Education at 614-466-
0224. Parents may also receive copies of inspection reports of the program from their child’s classroom teacher or
from Dublin City Schools Executive Director of Student Services.
Assessments
The Ohio Department of Education requires that several assessments are administered for students in all publicly
funded early childhood programs, and the results of those assessments are reported to their department. These
assessments include:
The ASQ-3 - a developmental screening of all children within 60 days of their enrollment. The screening addresses
development of children in the areas of physical, adaptive behavior, social-emotional, cognitive, and communication
skills. Results are used to determine if further interventions are needed.
The Early Learning Assessment - this will be administered to all preschool students twice a year. This assessment
addresses several learning progressions that are outlined by the Ohio Department of Education.
The Childhood Outcomes Summary assessment - This is required for Preschool children with disabilities. It ensures
that these students will reach or maintain a level commensurate with same-age peers and/or improve functioning
level in the following areas:
o Acquisition and use of knowledge and skills (including early language/communication and early literacy) .
10o Positive social-emotional skills (including social relationships).
o Use of appropriate behaviors to meet their needs.
The classroom staff will also complete the district’s curriculum based assessment. This is an ongoing formative
assessment that helps guide our classroom planning in the areas of Fine Motor, Gross Motor, Adaptive/Self Help,
Cognitive, Communication and Social Skills. All team members participate in this assessment (teachers, assistants,
Sp/L, OT, PT, APE, and parents). All parents are notified of their child’s performance on these assessments through
a notification form and at parent/teacher conferences.
Peanut-Free –The Early Childhood Program is considered “Peanut Free”. Due to rising concerns of peanut
allergies among young children, each early childhood classroom will be peanut free. Please note the building
is not peanut free, just the preschool classroom.
Nutrition
Healthful snacks are a part of the student’s day. School provides water and families may take turns providing weekly
snacks for all students or a snack may be packed by parents. The school provides all paper products. We ask that you
keep common food allergies in mind and select well-balanced, nutritious foods for the children. If your child requires
a special diet, we ask that you provide the daily snack along with a completed prescriber and parent form for Request
for Administration by Early Childhood Personnel of Prescription or Non-Prescription Medications, Food
Supplements or a Modified Diet. Please talk with your child’s teacher or school nurse if you have questions.
Fruits and Vegetables – Almost all of the snacks served to children should be fruits or vegetables. Fruit can be served
whole, sliced, cut in half, cubed, or in wedges. Canned, frozen and dried fruits are easy and usually need little
preparation. Healthy options include: fresh fruits and vegetables; frozen fruit; applesauce; fruit cups or canned fruit
(in juice or light syrup); dried fruit and fruit leathers (without added sugars); fruit salad; fruit juice popsicles; and
homemade smoothies. Vegetables can be served with dips like hummus, bean dip, or salad dressing; in salads; or
veggie pockets in whole-wheat pita.
Healthy Grains – (whole grains that are low in fats and sugars) – serve mostly whole grains, which provide more
fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined grains. (Whole wheat [or other whole grain] should be the first ingredient
listed.) Healthy whole grain options can include: English muffins, pita, or tortillas; breakfast cereal; crackers; rice
cakes; popcorn; tortilla chips; granola; cereal bars; breadsticks; or flatbreads. Refined grains, such as pretzels and
goldfish, should not be everyday offerings. Be sure to read nutrition labels to pick options that are low in sugars,
saturated fat, and trans fat.
Low Fat Dairy Foods – To protect children’s bones and hearts, make sure all dairy foods are low-fat or fat-free, such
as yogurt and low fat pudding. Since cheese is the #2 source of heart-damaging saturated fat in children’s diets, choose
lower fat cheeses, serve small portions, and serve cheese with other foods like fruit, vegetables, or whole grain
crackers.
Healthy Beverages
Water should be the main drink served to kids at snack times. Water satisfies thirst without adding calories or sugars
(and it is low cost!).
Seltzer or Sparkling Water – Look for calorie free varieties; flavored or unflavored.
Low Fat and Fat Free Milk - Milk is a terrific source of calcium and vitamin D, but it is also the #1 source of heart
damaging saturated fat in children’s diets. Choose fat-free (skim) or low-fat (1% instead of whole or 2% (reduced-
fat) milk. Soy and rice “milks” (fortified with calcium and vitamin D) also are healthy options.
Fruit Juice – Choose only 100% fruit juice, but limit juice to no more than 6 ounces (a little less than a cup) for 1-6
year olds and no more than 12 ounces (1 1/2 cups) for 7 –18 year olds per day. Avoid juice drinks, which, nutritionally,
are not better than soda pop. The label should list 100% juice and avoid drinks with sugar or high fructose corn syrup
in the ingredient list.
11Wellness
Dublin elementary schools take an active role in promoting, supporting, and modeling healthy eating habits for our
students. As a result, we have revised some of our former school practices regarding the distribution of edible treats
to celebrate student birthdays or special events throughout the school year.
• Each school has committed to a non-edible treat practice regarding birthdays or special events specific to
individual students or classes of students. This means that students will not bring in food items for birthday
treats or to celebrate events such as moving, etc. Instead, each school can help identify how to celebrate
special events in ways that do not involve edible treats.
• Annual school wide celebrations will continue to promote healthy eating as well by providing nutritional
snack options such as fruits and vegetables. Schools will limit sweet treats for school wide events to one
item per student.
Children embrace being recognized by their peers and teachers for special occasions. We invite the Dublin school
community to join us in our efforts to promote healthy and nutritious habits in our students.
Required Early Childhood Health Assessment and Annual Medical Exam
Per Ohio Administrative Code 3301-37-08: The parents shall provide, prior to the date of admission or no later than
30 days after date of admission and every 13 months from the date of examination thereafter, a physician’s assessment
from a licensed physician, physician’s assistant, clinical nurse specialist or certified nurse affirming that the child is
in suitable condition for enrollment in the program. Parents must remain in compliance with this rule in order for their
child to continue in the program.
Clinic Information
A student health clinic is located in the preschool building. A full-time clinic aide, in consultation with a school nurse
who covers multiple buildings, staffs the clinic. When the clinic aide, school nurse, or a substitute is not available in
the clinic, the building office staff will assist with student care.
Clinic staff offers basic first aid, emergency care, medication administration, and vision and hearing screenings.
Routine vision and hearing screenings are done each year for all preschool students. Additionally, if a staff member,
parents/guardians, or student has a concern about a student’s vision or hearing, the clinic staff can screen the child
upon request. Clinic staff also ensures compliance with Ohio’s medication and immunization laws, monitors for
communicable diseases, and assists students with required medical care as ordered by a healthcare provider.
At the beginning of each school year, parents/guardians are required by law (ORC 3313.712) to complete an
Emergency Medical Authorization Form for each student. This form is to enable parents/guardians to authorize the
provision of emergency treatment for children who become ill or injured while under school authority, when a
parents/guardian cannot be reached. Ohio law requires that all preschool students have two emergency contacts in
addition to parents. Please complete/update student’s medical information and Emergency Medical Authorization
online at SchoolCare/CareDox. Throughout the school year, please remember to update your student’s Emergency
Medical Authorization Form if there are changes to your child’s health care information (SchoolCare/CareDox).
Students will be excluded from participating in field trips and extracurricular activities until this requirement has been
met. Please note: If a student becomes ill or is injured during normal school hours, they will only be released
to individuals listed on the Emergency Medical Authorization Form.
Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact the school nurse prior to the first day of attendance with any
health concerns or conditions that could affect their child’s learning, attendance, or safety at school. It is also
recommended that parents/guardians list their child’s health concerns and medications on the district’s electronic
health record (SchoolCare/CareDox). This is especially important if a child has life-threatening allergies, seizures,
diabetes, or other medical concerns. The school nurse will work with the parents/guardians to develop a health care
plan for students who require preventative or medical interventions at school when appropriate. This plan will be
shared with school staff that work with or supervise the student.
Injury and Illness Procedures
The clinic is open during the school day and staff is available to see students who are observed or appear to be feeling
ill or have an injury that requires attention.
12Students who become ill or injured at school will need to be seen in the clinic for care. If the student appears too
ill/injured to remain in school, the clinic staff will contact parents/guardians to make arrangements for their child to
go home. If an injury or illness appears life threatening, staff will summon the emergency squad. Every effort will
be made to notify parents/guardians of this necessity.
Ill or injured students may not be released from school until they have been evaluated in the clinic. If a student is ill
or injured and must be dismissed early, the student will only be released to those listed on the Emergency Medical
Authorization Form. For early childhood students, parents/guardians or the designated contact must come into the
school office to sign the child into or out of school.
Medical Referral for Illness/Injury
1. The clinic health care team is not designated to replace the family physician or to dictate medical care. The
choice of health care provider and initiation of medical referral always remains at the discretion of the parents.
2. Your family physician should be contacted if: problems develop with an injury/illness, the condition worsens,
or the condition persists for an extended period of time. It is important when an ill/injured student returns to
school that any new or remaining problems be reported to the clinic staff.
3. All students evaluated by their family physician should provide a note from the physician indicating the
nature of the illness/injury, course of treatment, and any activity restrictions. The notification should be
provided to the clinic staff.
Control of Casual Contact Communicable Diseases and Pests
Dublin City Schools follow the recommendations of the Ohio Department of Health regarding school exclusion
requirements for communicable illnesses. When a child is ill, appears to be ill, has been diagnosed with a
communicable, untreated illness, or has an illness still considered contagious, the clinic and administrative staff have
the authority to exclude or isolate the student. In accordance with District Policy 8450, students having signs or
symptoms associated with a communicable disease, will be excluded until they are symptom-free for 24 hours without
the assistance of medication. State and local health guidelines may be subject to frequent change as determined by
health officials.
For common communicable illnesses (strep, pink eye, ringworm, etc), in which medication is required for treatment,
students must complete a minimum of 24 hours of therapy before returning to school. For other communicable
illnesses (whooping cough, chicken pox, measles, COVID-19, etc) the exclusion time will be longer and may require
a physician’s note to return to school.
In accordance with OAC 3701-3-13, when head lice are detected on a child at school, the child shall be excluded from
school until after the first treatment. A parent/guardian will be notified to pick up the student for treatment that day.
The parent/guardian and child are expected to report back to the school clinic for re-examination the following school
day. If the student is found to be free of live lice, he/she will return to the classroom. Students with live lice will be
re-excluded for further treatment.
For more information on communicable diseases and the guidelines for treatment and exclusion from school, please
visit the Ohio Department of Health’s website.
Management of Communicable Disease
A person trained in prevention, recognition, and management of communicable disease or other illness shall observe
each child daily.
A staff member will notify the parent or guardian of a child suspected of having a communicable disease (observed to
have signs or symptoms of illness) and the child would be isolated and discharged to his parent or guardian. To ensure
appropriate management of suspected illnesses, staff will adhere to the Ohio Department of Health “communicable
disease chart”.
Signs of illness can include:
• Diarrhea (more than one abnormally loose stool within a twenty-four-hour period);
• Severe coughing, causing the child to become red or blue in the face or to make a whooping sound;
• Difficult or rapid breathing;
• Yellowish skin or eyes;
• Conjunctivitis;
• Temperature of one hundred degrees Fahrenheit taken by the axillary method when in combination with
13other signs of illness;
• Untreated infected skin patch(es);
• Unusually dark urine and/or grey or white stool;
• Stiff neck;
• Evidence of lice, scabies, or other parasitic infestation;
• Unusual spots or rashes;
• Sore throat or difficulty swallowing; or
• Vomiting.
A child isolated due to suspected communicable disease shall be:
• cared for in a room or portion of a room not being used in the Early Childhood program;
• within sight and hearing of an adult at all times. No child shall ever be left alone or unsupervised;
• made comfortable and provided with a cot. All linens and blankets used by the ill child shall be laundered
before being used by another child. After use, the cots shall be disinfected with an appropriate germicidal
agent, or, if soiled with blood, feces, vomit, or other body fluids, the cots shall be cleaned with soap and
water and then disinfected with an appropriate germicidal agent;
• observed carefully for worsening condition;
• discharged to parent or guardian as soon as practical.
Regulations for the Administration of Medications, Food Supplements or Modified Diets -
Early Childhood only. (OAC 3301-37-07)
According to Ohio Law (OAC 3301-37-07) if an early childhood student requires any type of prescription or non-
prescription medications, food supplements or a modified diet at school, a parent/guardian is responsible for providing
the school with the prescription or non-prescription (over-the-counter) medication or food supplement. A licensed
prescriber and parent/guardian is also required to complete the following form: 5330 F1 Request for Administration
of Prescription & Non-Prescription Medications by School Personnel. This form is available on the district’s web site
or in the building clinic.
All prescription and non-prescription medications and food supplements must be stored in the clinic. Foods required
for a modified diet may be kept with the classroom teacher. Early Childhood students who have a completed
authorization from on file to self-carry and administer an inhaler (5330 F2 Request for Student to Carry and Administer
Own Prescription Medication by Inhaler) or epinephrine autoinjector (5330A E F1 Allergy and Anaphylaxis
Emergency Orders and Care Plan) with assistance may do so on the bus or while at school. An extra autoinjector is
required by law to be stored in the clinic. These forms are available on the district’s website or in the building clinic.
Early Childhood Medication and Food Supplement procedures
1. A written request must be obtained from an Ohio-licensed prescriber and the parent/guardian each school
year before any prescription or non-prescription medications or food supplements may be administered to an
early childhood student by school personnel (5330 F1 Request for Administration of Prescription & Non-
Prescription Medications by School Personnel).
2. The signed medication/supplement request form should be brought to the school by the parent/guardian.
Completed forms can also be faxed from home or the prescriber’s office to the school
3. Prescription medication must be brought in by the parent in the original container or packaging in which it
was dispensed by the prescriber or pharmacist. All prescription medication will be stored in the clinic and
administered by designated staff. Pharmacists can make a duplicate bottle for the school.
4. Non-prescription medication and food supplements must be brought in by the parent in the original
manufacturer’s package or container as purchased and will also be stored in the clinic and dispensed by
designated staff.
5. Before any “as needed” medication is given, a parent may need to be contacted to ensure the medication was
not already administered at home to the student.
6. If a student has obvious signs of injury or illness, such as a fever, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, or other signs of
a possible communicable illness or serious injury, the prescribed non-prescription medication may be
administered, but the student will need to be sent home to recover.
7. A new Request for Administration of Prescription or Non-Prescription Medications by School Personnel
form must be submitted each school year and whenever there is any change in the prescriber’s order, such as
14an increase or decrease in medication or food supplement dosage, or a change of medication or food
supplement.
8. Accurate records of the administration of medications and food supplements will be kept in the student’s
health file for seven years.
9. An early childhood student cannot self-carry or administer her/his own prescription or non-prescription
medication or supplements except as designated in #10. All prescription and non-prescription medications
or supplements will be stored by school personnel in a locked area unless it requires refrigeration, in which
case it will be kept in a refrigerator in a place not commonly used by students.
10. A student may self-carry and administer his or her own prescription inhaler 5330 F2 Request for Student to
Carry and Administer Own Prescription Medication by Inhaler) or epinephrine autoinjector (5330A E F1
Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Orders and Care Plan) with assistance, only after the proper medication
request for the student has been completed by both a licensed prescriber and a parent/guardian and is on file
in the school clinic.
11. Forms for emergency medications are available online (www.dublinschools.net/MedicalHealthForms.aspx)
or in the clinic for prescribers and parents to complete for inhalers, epinephrine autoinjectors, glucagon,
diastat and intranasal midazolam.
12. The school board designates the following personnel to administer prescription medication: nurses, teachers,
aides, secretarial/office staff, bus drivers, bus aides, assistant principals, principals, other district
administrators and others as designated by the student’s IEP and/or 504 Plan and/or any other person(s) as
determined and designated by the superintendent or designee to meet the needs of a particular student. Any
of the foregoing personnel administering medication may do so only after completing the District’s drug
administration training program and reviewing the applicable request form, including the prescriber’s order,
instructions, and signature and a parent/guardian signature.
13. Parents/guardians are responsible for picking up unused prescription and non-prescription medications and
supplements at the end of each school year. No medications or food supplements will be sent home with
students. Any medications or supplements remaining in the clinic will be discarded.
14. A new medication/supplement form and any self-carry inhaler/Epinephrine autoinjector or other emergency
medication form must be properly completed and signed by a licensed prescriber and parent/guardian each
school year.
2021-2022 IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS FOR
SCHOOL ATTENDANCE
Ohio Law requires each student to demonstrate compliance of immunizations requirements via medical
documentation. Please provide an immunization record to the clinic by the 1st day of attendance. The School
Nurse will review all student immunization records for compliance with Ohio law. The number of required
immunizations for each child may vary depending on the child’s grade, child’s age and route each vaccine was given,
manufacture’s brand of vaccine and child’s disease and health history. The school nurse or clinic aide will contact you
if additional vaccines are needed.
Please contact the building school nurse, your child’s health care provider or the Ohio Department of Health
Immunization Program at (800) 282-0546 if you have questions or concerns about your child’s immunizations.
All new students to the district who have spent more than 30 consecutive days in a TB endemic region within the past
five years or who were born in a TB endemic region must also present evidence of a negative Tuberculin (TB) test
before they can attend school. The TB test must have been completed within the past 12 months in the United States.
Current enrolled students who spend 30 or more consecutive days in a TB endemic region will also be required to
have a negative Tuberculin (TB) test before returning to school.
Bloodborne Pathogens
The Dublin City Schools Board of Education recognizes that staff/students incur some risk of infection and illness each time
they are exposed to blood or other potentially infectious materials. While the risk to staff/students of exposure to body fluids
due to casual contact with individuals in the school environment is extremely low, the board regards any such risk as serious.
The school district seeks to provide a safe educational environment for students and has taken appropriate measures to protect
those students who may be exposed to blood borne pathogens in the school environment and/or during their participation in
school-related activities. The staff is taught to assume that all body fluids are potentially infectious and to follow standard
precautions to reduce risks and minimize and/or prevent the potential for accidental infection.
15A district Exposure Control Plan is in place for staff to eliminate or reduce the risk of student and staff exposure to blood
borne pathogens. A blood borne pathogen is a pathogenic microorganism that is present in human blood and can cause
disease in humans. These microorganisms include, but are not limited to, Hepatitis B and C Viruses (HBV and HBC) and
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
Whenever a student has contact with blood or other potentially infectious material, the child must immediately notify the
nurse/clinic aide. Staff will assist your child in cleansing the exposed area. The parent/guardian of a student who is exposed
will be contacted regarding the exposure and encouraged to consult with the student’s physician concerning any necessary
post-exposure testing or treatment.
As required by Federal law, if a staff member has been exposed to a student’s blood, the parent/guardian of that student will
be requested to have their child’s blood tested for HIV and HBV. Any testing is subject to laws protecting confidentiality.
Healthchek Services for Children Younger than Age 21
Healthchek is Ohio's Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) Program. It is a service package for
babies, kids, and young adults younger than age 21 who are enrolled on Ohio Medicaid.
The purpose of Healthchek is to discover and treat health problems early. If a potential health problem is found, further
diagnosis and treatment are covered by Medicaid.
Healthchek covers ten check-ups in the first two years of life and annual check-ups thereafter and offers a comprehensive
physical examination that includes:
• medical history
• complete unclothed exam (with parent approval)
• developmental screening (to assess if child's physical and mental abilities are age appropriate)
• vision screening
• dental screening
• hearing assessment
• immunization assessment (making sure child receives them on time)
• lead screening; and
• other services or screenings as needed
If your children are enrolled on Ohio Medicaid, Healthchek services are available to them. If you are younger than age 21
and are also enrolled, you can receive Healthchek services, too. For additional information, go to
https://medicaid.ohio.gov/FOR-OHIOANS/Programs/Healthchek.
Notification to Parents Regarding Student Records / FERPA
(See related Policy #8330, “Student Records”)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over eighteen (18) years of age (“adult
students” or “eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. On November 12, 2009, the
Board of Education adopted a policy regarding the disclosure of education records and the rights of parents and students to
access education records. Copies of this policy and related guidelines are located in all school buildings and individual copies
are available from the District’s Records Officer (“DRO”). The DRO is responsible for the supervision of student records in
the school and his/her office is located at 5175 Emerald Parkway., Dublin, OH or s/he can be reached by calling 614-760-
4359.
Each student’s records will be kept in a confidential file located at the student’s school office. The information in a student’s
record file will be available for review only by the parents or legal guardian of a student, an adult student and those authorized
by State and Federal law and Board policy/guidelines. State and Federal law permits access by school officials who have a
legitimate educational purpose. School officials for purpose of the Board’s policy include a person employed by the Board
as an administrator, supervisor, teacher/instructor (including substitutes), or support staff member (including health or
medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the Board; a person or company with whom the Board
has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, insurance carrier, medical consultant, or supplemental
education service provider); a contractor, consultant, volunteer or other party to whom the Board had outsourced a service
otherwise performed by Board employees (e.g. a therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a
disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his/her tasks (including volunteers).
16An individual will have a “legitimate educational purpose” if the record is necessary in order for the school official/employee
to perform an administrative, supervisory, or instructional task, or to perform a service or benefit for the student or the
student’s family. The Board directs that reasonable and appropriate methods (including but not limited to physical and/or
technological access controls) be utilized to control access to student records and to make certain that school officials obtain
access to only those education records in which they have legitimate educational interest.
In addition to school officials with a legitimate educational purpose, the Board may disclose personally identifiable
information from the education records of a student without obtaining prior written consent of the parents or the eligible
student:
A. to officials of another school, school system, or institution of postsecondary education where the
student seeks or intends to enroll, or where the student is already enrolled if the disclosure is for
purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer, subject to the requirements of 34 C.F.R. 99.34.
B. to authorized representatives of the U. S. Comptroller General, the U. S. Attorney General, the U. S.
Secretary of Education, or State and local educational authorities, such as the Ohio Department of
Education. Disclosures under this provision may be made, subject to the requirements of 34 C.F.R.
99.35, in connection with an audit or evaluation of Federal- or State-supported education programs, or
for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal legal requirements that relate to those programs.
These entities may make further disclosures of personally identifiable information to outside entities
that are designated by them as their authorized representatives to conduct any audit, evaluation, or
enforcement or compliance activity on their behalf.
C. in connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if
the information is necessary to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of the aid,
determine the conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid.
D. to organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to: (1) develop, validate,
or administer predictive tests; (2) administer student aid programs; or (3) improve instruction.
E. to accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions.
F. to parents of an eligible student if the student is a dependent for IRS tax purposes.
G. to comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena.
H. to State and local officials or authorities in the juvenile justice system as it pertains to the system’s
ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records were released, upon
certification that the information will not be unlawfully released to third parties.
I. to appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency.
J. information the school has designated as “directory information,” as defined below, and subject to the
restrictions explained below.
A parent or adult student has the right to:
A. inspect and review the student’s education records within forty-five (45) days after the school receives a request for
access or within such shorter period as may be applicable to students with disabilities. The school has a form that
can be used to submit such a request. The Custodian of Records (“COR”) (building principal) will notify the parent
or adult student of the time and place where the records can be inspected. Parents and adult students are not permitted
to inspect and review the education records of other students. If there is a valid reason why a parent or adult student
cannot personally inspect and review a student’s education records, or if the parent or adult student specifically
requests copies of education records, the COR may arrange for copies of the requested records to be delivered to the
parent or adult student directly. The Board may charge a reasonable fee for the copying of records, which may be
waived under circumstances of unusual hardship.
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